The Philadelphia 76ers have made a notable move in their frontcourt roster by signing forward Jabari Walker to a two-way contract ahead of the 2025–26 NBA season. This addition comes as the team looks to bolster depth at the power forward position, following their earlier signing of Trendon Watford. Walker, a 6-foot-7, 237-pound versatile forward, arrives with three seasons of NBA experience under his belt, having spent his entire professional career with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Walker was selected as the 57th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft out of Colorado and quickly made his presence felt in Portland. Over three seasons, he appeared in 188 games, including 24 starts, showcasing his ability to contribute both as a starter and a key rotational player. His 2023–24 season marked a career high in minutes and production, averaging 8.9 points and 7.1 rebounds in 23.6 minutes per game across 72 contests. However, the subsequent 2024–25 season saw a reduction in his role due to the Blazers acquiring Deni Avdija and the emergence of Toumani Camara, which pushed Walker into fewer minutes and a diminished statistical output.
Despite the dip in playing time, Walker maintained impressive efficiency. In 60 games during the 2024–25 season, he averaged 5.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in 12.5 minutes per game, shooting a career-best 51.5% from the field. Notably, his three-point shooting showed significant improvement, hitting 38.9% overall, a stark contrast to his earlier seasons where he shot below 30%. A remarkable detail is that nearly half of his three-point attempts came from the corners, where he converted at an outstanding 45.5%, demonstrating his potential as a reliable perimeter shooter. On March 5, Walker notably made all six of his three-point attempts in a game against the Boston Celtics, highlighting his shooting prowess.
The Trail Blazers chose not to extend a qualifying offer to Walker, making him an unrestricted free agent this offseason. This decision allowed Walker to explore other opportunities, and the 76ers quickly moved to secure his services. ESPN’s Shams Charania first broke the news of the signing on July 3, 2025, confirming the two-way contract agreement. The deal fills the Sixers’ third and final two-way contract slot, joining Hunter Sallis and Alex Reese, who also split their time between the NBA squad and the Delaware Blue Coats, Philadelphia’s G League affiliate.
Walker’s two-way contract means he can be active for up to 50 NBA games unless the Sixers decide to promote him to a standard NBA contract. Given the current depth chart, Walker is expected to spend a significant portion of his time developing in the G League. The 76ers’ frontcourt features established stars and promising young players, including Joel Embiid, who is currently dealing with a knee issue, along with Adem Bona, Justin Edwards, Trendon Watford, and Johni Broome. Carving out consistent NBA minutes will be a challenge for Walker, but the organization clearly values his potential and versatility.
Jabari Walker’s ability to play both forward positions, combined with his rebounding and improved shooting, fits well with the Sixers’ strategy of emphasizing youth and athleticism. His development trajectory suggests he could become a valuable role player or even a key contributor if he continues to refine his skills. The move also addresses the void left by the departure of Guerschon Yabusele, who signed with the New York Knicks, signaling the Sixers’ intent to maintain robust frontcourt depth.
Walker’s basketball lineage adds another layer to his profile. He is the son of Samaki Walker, a former NBA player who had a decade-long career and won a championship with the 2001–02 Los Angeles Lakers. This background provides Jabari with a unique perspective on professional basketball and a foundation for navigating the challenges of the NBA.
Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers are adjusting their roster following Walker’s departure. He is the first unrestricted free agent from Portland to sign elsewhere this offseason. The Blazers now have five forwards on their roster: Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, Jerami Grant, Kris Murray, and Rayan Rupert. They also have restricted free agent Justin Minaya and have been active in trade talks regarding Jerami Grant. Portland’s offseason moves include acquiring guard Jrue Holiday from Boston in exchange for Anfernee Simons and buying out center Deandre Ayton’s contract, who subsequently agreed to terms with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Blazers have yet to add new players in free agency as they continue to reshape their squad.
For the Sixers, the signing of Jabari Walker is a strategic step in building a competitive roster capable of contending in the Eastern Conference. The team’s approach to integrating young talent like Walker alongside established stars reflects a balanced plan for sustained success. As Walker embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on how quickly he adapts to the Sixers’ system and whether he can translate his promising efficiency into consistent contributions at the NBA level.
In the coming weeks, fans and analysts alike will be watching Walker’s progress closely, particularly his development with the Delaware Blue Coats and any opportunities he receives with the main squad. The 76ers’ frontcourt depth will be tested over the course of the season, especially with Embiid’s injury status uncertain. Walker’s versatility and shooting could prove invaluable in providing the team with much-needed flexibility and scoring options.
Ultimately, Jabari Walker’s signing underscores the dynamic nature of NBA rosters during the offseason and the importance of savvy acquisitions. While he faces competition for minutes, his proven shooting ability and athleticism make him a player worth monitoring as the Sixers aim to strengthen their lineup for the challenges ahead.
